2007 Audi A8 Quattro

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints associated with the 2007 Audi A8 Quattro. This luxury sedan offered a blend of performance, comfort, and technology, appealing to those seeking a high-end driving experience. However, like any vehicle, the 2007 A8 has its share of potential problems. Owners often praise its comfortable ride, powerful engine options, and luxurious interior. Common complaints revolve around the cost of maintenance and repairs, particularly with its complex systems. The engine options available were the 4.2L V8 with 350 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.0L W12 engine with 450 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. Both were offered with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.2L V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing chain jumps.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioners, chain, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Camshaft Adjuster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased performance, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace faulty camshaft adjuster(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, visible leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the coolant expansion tank, thermostat housing, and water pump.
  • Solution: Identify and replace leaking components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.

6.0L W12

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light. The W12 engine has a coil pack on each cylinder, making this a potentially expensive repair.
  • Solution: Replace faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per coil pack, depending on labor.
• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased performance, poor fuel economy. Direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves.
  • Solution: Professional cleaning of the intake valves, either through walnut blasting or chemical cleaning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension sagging, inability to raise or lower the vehicle, “Suspension Fault” warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Air Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension sagging, especially overnight, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, depending on location and brand.

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts. Often caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw. This can be a complex process.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
• Central Convenience Control Module Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and alarm system.
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the central convenience control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
• Navigation/MMI System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frozen screen, system not responding, inability to enter destinations.
  • Solution: Software update, component replacement (MMI control unit, navigation drive).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+

Exterior

• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Foggy headlight lenses. Adaptive headlights malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Replace or restore headlight lenses. Replace faulty components of the headlight assembly or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$2000 depending on issue.
• Tail light issues
  • Description/Symptoms: LED tail light failure
  • Solution: Replace entire tail light assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly. Motor failure.
  • Solution: Replace sunroof motor or repair the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, or not responding to the key fob.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per door.

Recalls:

• 07V028000
• 07V152000
• 07V189000
• 08V515000
• 09V028000
• 11V294000
• 12V224000

In summary, the 2007 Audi A8 Quattro offers a luxurious driving experience but can be prone to costly repairs, especially with its air suspension, timing chains (on the 4.2L V8), and electrical systems. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering this vehicle. Severity of repairs can range from minor inconveniences to major engine or transmission overhauls.